CPR certification in Massachusetts

American Training Association for CPR offers online training in both CPR & First Aid, accessible to residents in all Massachusetts cites including Boston, Plymouth, and Brookline.

What is CPR?

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is a technique used to save the lives of cardiac arrest victims. Cardiac arrest happens if the heart unexpectedly stops beating. Blood contains oxygen, which the body’s major organs, like the brain, kidneys, and liver, need to survive. Without a heartbeat, the heart cannot pump blood to these organs. Without oxygen, severe brain damage occurs within four minutes and death occurs within ten minutes. CPR manually pumps blood to the organs when the heart is not able to do so due to cardiovascular complications.

What is the correct way to perform CPR?

Remembering that every second counts in increasing a victim’s chance of survival, rescuers should not delay beginning CPR. According to the American Heart Association, the proper CPR technique is as follows:

1. Check the victim for responsiveness by asking, “Are you okay?” and shaking their shoulder. If they do not respond, and they do not have a pulse, have another bystander call 911 and begin performing CPR immediately.
2. Perform rapid chest compressions at a rate of 2 per second, or 120 per minute, firmly pressing down a minimum of 2 inches on the victim’s chest.
3. Continue compressions until emergency medical assistance arrives.
4. If a victim is not breathing, rescuers should perform rescue breathing. Placing your mouth over the victim's, deliver one rescue breath and observe if their chest rises. If it does not, give the second breath before resuming chest compressions.
5. If using rescue breathing, use the ratio of 30 compressions to 2 rescue breaths and continue until emergency medical staff arrives.

How does infant CPR differ from child CPR?

Due to an infant’s much smaller size, a gentler touch is used than what is required for adult CPR. Compressions should be 1/3 the depth of the infant’s total chest depth. Rescuers may only need to use several fingers to compress the chest, and rescue breaths should be less forceful. If using an AED to restart the heart, use the pediatric pads that come with the AED.

What techniques will I learn in a free CPR class?

Any first aid course should include basic techniques for treating accidental injuries like choking, wounds, poisoning, burns, seizures, and more. First aid prevents further harm and assists in treatment until further medical assistance in available. Individuals can learn first aid procedures in both online and in-person classes. Participants should note that free CPR and first aid classes typically do not provide certification. Taking a Red Cross CPR and First Aid or AHA-approved course is the best way to earn nationally recognized certification.

How should insect bites be treated in severely allergic people?

Most insect stings have mild reactions, but in some people with allergies, reactions can be severe if untreated. If an anaphylactic reaction occurs (symptoms include trouble breathing, swelling of the face, lips and throat, hives, faintness, redness, abdominal pain, and vomiting) rescuers must use an auto-injector, typically an EPI pen, on the victim’s thigh and prevent death. Rescuers should perform CPR when needed and place the victim lying on their side to prevent choking.

Mild reactions can be treated with Benadryl, removing the stinger, and applying ice to the area. Mild symptoms include swelling, nausea, and vomiting. Because mild symptoms can mirror anaphylaxis at the start of the reaction, rescuers should watch for additional swelling of mouth and lips, which can indicate constriction of the throat and difficulty breathing. When in doubt, rescuers should administer the auto-injector and call 911 for further treatment.

Where can I find BLS, CPR, and first aid classes near me?

Basic life support (BLS), CPR, and first aid classes are available across Massachusetts, at hospitals, community health centers, fire halls, and in locations across the state. Free CPR classes are offered in any of the major city centers including Salem, and Springfield and Worcester. Online classes are an attractive and convenient alternative to attending in-person courses. Participants should confirm that a class has a CPR or first aid certification component for the most comprehensive training.

CPR and First Aid Certifications and Renewals

How can I expand my knowledge and learn more about first aid and CPR?

Individuals and professionals who are interested in pursuing first aid and CPR at a more advanced level may consider a first responder course, an infant or child CPR class, or a mental health first aid class in addition to learning BLS skills.

Where can I find CPR renewals near me?

Individuals can renew their CPR and first aid credentials by taking a refresher class and successfully passing another certification exam. This can be completed in person at locations throughout Massachusetts or by taking a convenient online course.

Obtain CPR and First Aid Certification Now

Earn proper CPR certification by registering in our online courses that allow participants to learn the skills they need to save lives and provide emergency care when needed. Visit www.uscpronline.com to begin an AHA-approved certification course today.